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Guardianship & Conservatorship
The Difference Between a Guardian and a Conservator
A guardian is appointed by the court to make the personal decisions for the protected person ("Ward".) The guardian has authority to make decisions on behalf of the protected person about such things as where to live, medical decisions, training and education, etc.
A conservator is appointed to make financial decisions for the protected person ("Conservatee".) The conservator typically has the power to enter into contracts, pay bills, invest assets, and perform other financial functions for the protected person.
If you want to have custody or be the "legal guardian" of a minor child, see Child Custody & Parenting Time for more information, or talk to a lawyer.
For information about protecting the interests of minor children involved in the courts, go to Guardian ad Litem Program.
Forms
Court Forms -- Guardianship and Conservatorship
NOTE: The MN Courts do not publish Instructions for each guardianship/conservatorship form. You should talk with a lawyer to find out which forms you need, how to use them, and what Fees must be paid.
Delegation of Parental Authority (Temporary Care of a Child): If a parent wants to give another adult the temporary right to provide a home for a child and make decisions about the child's schooling, medical care, etc., the parent can use a non-court form called Delegation of Parental Authority. NOTE: This is NOT the same as being a child's "legal guardian."
Another good resource for finding forms and how-to information on legal issues is your local law library.
Resources on Guardianship and Conservatorship
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